Television series
| Hymn Sing |
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| Country of origin | Canada |
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| No. of seasons | 30 |
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| Running time | 30 minutes |
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| Network | CBC Television |
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| Release | October 3, 1965 (1965-10-03) –
May 1995 (1995-05) |
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Hymn Sing was a Canadian television series taped in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for CBC Television.[1] The program featured hymns, spirituals and inspirational music sung by a sixteen member choir.[2] The series was broadcast nationally on Sunday afternoons from October 3, 1965 to May 1995.
The show's musical directors were Eric Wild (from 1965 to 1978) and Winnifred Sim (1978–1995).[3]
Reception
Hymn Sing was originally scheduled for a 13-week run, but due to overwhelming popularity, it grew into a 30-year series. Hymn Sing was viewed by more than 3 million Canadians per week, and at times, had better ratings that Hockey Night in Canada. Hymn Sing eventually became CBC's second longest running show, after Front Page Challenge.[3] Performers recount receiving fan mail and gifts from viewers.[3]
Reunion
Hymn Sing alumni hosted a three-day reunion event in August 2018 in Winnipeg. The event ended with a 90 minute celebratory concert at Bethel Mennonite Church, which featured over 70 former Hymn Sing performers.[2] John Nelson, a show performer from 1968 to 1974, said of the event "This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as many of us are now in our 60s, or even mid-70s, it's also our opportunity to thank our fans, and bring a sense of closure… that we never really had until now."[3] The concert paid homage to various important members of the Hymn Sing team, including musical director Winnifred Sim and pianist Mitch Parks.[3]
References
